For all you animal lovers, it's now easy to incorporate animals and even your own pets into your special day. 
 

1. Fish - Forget the flowers: use bright, colourful fishbowls as centrepieces instead!  This is a great feature and conversation starter for guests when they are seated.  Ensure that you don't overcrowd the bowl and more importantly, make sure that the fish are well fed.
2. Dogs - For many people dogs are considered a big part of the family.  Therefore it is natural to want them to attend or partake in the wedding day itself.  This is becoming increasingly popular, especially in America with celebrity weddings.  Dogs can be used as the ring bearer, or even as a groomsmen or bridesmaids.  Just check with your venue that animals are allowed, and ensure they are well trained.  It's also a good idea to assign somebody to all the pet-handling duties on the day.  This can be a professional or a guest - key duties include dressing the dog, feeding, transportation to the venue and most importantly toilet breaks.
3. Doves - These beautiful birds symbolise love, fidelity and the union of your relationship.  They are often used at the end of the Civil Ceremony to conclude the formal part of the day.  We advise that you assign somebody the responsibility of ensuring the doves are bought to the venue. 
4. Butterflies - Butterflies can be used in similar releases to the dove as they also symbolise the spirit of joy, freedom and new beginnings.  Butterflies symbolise the passing of loved ones. To honour those who are no longer with us, you may choose to release butterflies in rememberance.
5. Horses - The classic entrance for all you horse loving brides.  The horse and carriage entrance is romantic and will be sure to bring out the princess in you.  For avid horse riders, you can enter riding the horse led by your father.  Just remember to check that your dress will easily allow you to get on and off the horse.